1. Avoid impulse spending and buying on credit at all costs.

    If you know you simply can?t resist the temptation, go window shopping first without cash or a credit card.

    Instead of just buying on impulse, make a list of the gifts you want to buy, where you can find it and the cost for each. Review your list objectively at home using your budget and your list of priorities to decide which items are really necessary and value for money. Then head back to the shops for a smart and guilt-free shopping spree!

  2. Involve your family in your budgeting and planning to ensure everyone understands how important it is to their financial well-being in the future, so that you can rely on their support when temptation knocks.

You can now go out and spend your 'holiday budget' without a trace of guilt, knowing you will start the new year with a clear vision of your financial future, inspiring financial goals for 2010 and without any extra 'silly season' debt!